Open letter: Community pharmacy group voices concern over Paxlovid fee changes

We, the members of the Bay of Plenty Community Pharmacy Group, write to express our profound disappointment with the recent proposed terms for Paxlovid community pharmacy services set forth by Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora. The process has been marked by a stark lack of consultation and an alarming reduction in funding, both of which undermine our ability to provide essential healthcare services to our community.

The financial support outlined in the new terms falls drastically short of what is required to sustain high-quality Paxlovid community pharmacy services

First and foremost, we are deeply troubled by the lack of meaningful engagement and consultation with the very professionals who are tasked with delivering these critical services. Our pharmacists and healthcare workers have been on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic, tirelessly working to ensure that patients receive the care they need. It is both disheartening and unacceptable that such significant decisions are being made without their input and expertise.

Moreover, the proposed funding cuts are simply untenable. The financial support outlined in the new terms falls drastically short of what is required to sustain high-quality Paxlovid community pharmacy services. This reduction not only jeopardises the quality of care but also threatens the accessibility of these services to those who need them most.

The implications of inadequate funding are far-reaching. Without sufficient resources, we cannot maintain the level of service that our patients deserve. The sustainability of our operations is at risk, and the ability to provide safe and effective care is compromised. We urge Health New Zealand to reconsider these cuts and recognise the true value and cost of the services we provide.

It is important to note that a number of pharmacies have already withdrawn their services due to the lack of adequate funding and support. This trend is a clear indication of the unsustainable nature of the proposed terms and the urgent need for reassessment and meaningful dialogue.

We call on Health New Zealand to engage in an open, transparent and collaborative dialogue with us. It is imperative that the voices of pharmacists and healthcare providers are heard and respected. Only through genuine consultation can we develop terms that are fair, equitable and reflective of the realities of delivering high-quality healthcare.

Our commitment to our community remains steadfast. We are dedicated to advocating for the necessary resources and support to continue providing essential pharmacy services. We believe that by working together, we can achieve a solution that upholds the standards of care our patients deserve.

We look forward to a constructive response and a commitment to meaningful engagement moving forward.

Sincerely,

Stuart MacDonald
President
Bay of Plenty Community Pharmacy Group